Matt Fariss

Charles Matthew Fariss, commonly known as Matt Fariss, is a former American politician and businessman who served as a member of the Virginia House of Delegates. He represented the 59th district, which encompasses parts of Appomattox County, Buckingham County, and regions of Albemarle, Campbell, and Nelson counties. A member of the Republican Party, Fariss was first elected to the Virginia House in 2011 and served two distinct terms before concluding his legislative career in 2011. His political journey has been marked by both legislative achievements and legal controversies, culminating in a bid for re-election as an Independent candidate in 2023, where he finished third in a three-way race.

Early life and career

Matt Fariss was born on May 11, 1968, and grew up on a farm, which played a significant role in shaping his early life and career. After completing his education at Rustburg High School, he pursued a career in farming, eventually expanding into various related business ventures. Notably, he became a co-owner of the Lynchburg Livestock Market, which contributed to his understanding of agricultural economics and local business operations.

Fariss is married to Crystal Dawn Brown, and together they have three children: Hunter, Bobby, and Harrison. His family life has been intertwined with his professional pursuits, reflecting a commitment to both his personal and business responsibilities. The agricultural background and business experience he gained during his early years would later inform his perspectives and policy positions as a legislator.

Legislative service

In 2011, Matt Fariss entered the political arena when the incumbent delegate for Virginia's 59th district, independent Watkins Abbitt, Jr., announced his retirement after 26 years of service. Fariss, as the Republican nominee, successfully won a three-way election against Democrat Connie Brennan and independent Linda M. Wall, securing approximately 52.98% of the vote. His campaign was characterized by a platform that emphasized social conservatism, particularly in opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage.

Fariss served two distinct terms in the Virginia House of Delegates, during which he participated in various legislative activities and initiatives. However, his tenure was not without controversy. In October 2019, he faced scrutiny for potentially violating Virginia's campaign finance laws by conducting a fundraiser through a raffle, which raised questions about his adherence to campaign regulations.

In 2022, following the U.S. Federal census, the Virginia legislature underwent a process of reapportionment, resulting in significant changes to the district boundaries. The 59th district was redrawn to include areas substantially north and east of Fariss' previous constituency, while the counties that had been part of his district were reassigned to the newly formed 51st legislative district. This shift posed challenges for Fariss as he sought to maintain his political influence in the changing landscape.

In June 2023, Fariss filed for re-election as an Independent candidate after missing the deadline set by the Republican Legislative District Committee. His legal troubles, which had begun to surface, likely influenced his decision to run as an Independent. The election took place on November 7, 2023, where Fariss finished third, receiving approximately 8% of the votes cast, while the Republican nominee Eric Zehr won with 69%, and the Democratic nominee Kimberly Moran garnered 22%.

Policy focus and district

During his time in the Virginia House of Delegates, Matt Fariss focused on several key policy areas that reflected his conservative values. His opposition to abortion and same-sex marriage were central tenets of his political ideology, aligning with the broader Republican platform on social issues. Fariss positioned himself as a social conservative, advocating for policies that he believed would uphold traditional values within the community.

The 59th district, which Fariss represented, included a diverse mix of rural and suburban areas, with constituents from Appomattox County, Buckingham County, and parts of Albemarle, Campbell, and Nelson counties. This demographic diversity influenced his legislative priorities and the issues he championed. Fariss' background in agriculture and business likely informed his approach to economic development and rural affairs, as he sought to address the needs of his constituents in these sectors.

However, Fariss' political career faced significant challenges due to legal issues that emerged during and after his time in office. In January 2016, he was charged with a misdemeanor breach of peace and a hit-and-run incident, which raised concerns about his conduct. More serious legal troubles arose in 2023 when he faced charges of malicious wounding, failing to stop after an accident, and reckless driving. These incidents culminated in a trial where he was found not guilty of the more severe charges but convicted of improper driving.

Following these legal challenges, Fariss was arrested on felony charges related to possession of methamphetamines and a firearm, as well as a misdemeanor charge for violating a protective order. His legal troubles continued to escalate, leading to multiple arrests and a series of court appearances. Ultimately, he pleaded guilty to lesser charges and was sentenced to time served.

In summary, Matt Fariss' political career was marked by his representation of Virginia's 59th district, his alignment with conservative values, and his involvement in various legislative initiatives. However, his legacy is complicated by legal issues that emerged during and after his time in office, affecting his re-election efforts and public perception.